Blog Single

In a historic milestone for the UK–Cameroon business community, the UK Cameroon Chamber of Commerce (UKCCC) has been officially admitted into the prestigious British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) network. This recognition marks a new chapter for the UKCCC as it joins a global alliance of over 75 international Chambers dedicated to fostering trade, investment, and economic cooperation. In this exclusive interview, the Chairman of the UKCCC reflects on the significance of this achievement, outlines the Chamber’s vision for the future, and shares insights into how members can actively leverage this affiliation for growth and global visibility.

Mr. Chairman, what was your first reaction upon receiving the news of the UKCCC’s official acceptance into the British Chambers of Commerce, and what are your early priorities for collaboration?

Chairman:
It was a moment of deep pride and reflection. This is a landmark achievement for the UKCCC, and the culmination of tireless work by our entire leadership and membership. To be officially recognized by the British Chambers of Commerce—one of the world’s most prestigious business networks—means we are now operating on a global stage.

Our early focus will be on purposeful engagement—identifying high-impact opportunities within the BCC network where our members can immediately gain value. We aim to build bilateral relationships with fellow Chambers, initiate strategic trade missions, and ensure our voice is present in global trade dialogues.

In an earlier comment, you described this as ‘a most significant achievement.’ Could you elaborate on what makes this milestone particularly important for the UKCCC?

Chairman:
It’s important for several reasons. Firstly, it gives us legitimacy and credibility—not just in the UK and Cameroon, but globally. We now sit alongside more than 75 Chambers representing key markets across the world. That’s a level of recognition that opens doors.

Secondly, it transforms our potential. Our members now gain access to one of the most established international business networks—this is not symbolic; it is strategic. It enhances everything we stand for: promoting trade, attracting investment, and building trust across borders.

How will this new affiliation help advance the broader mission of the UKCCC?

Chairman:
Our mission has always been clear: to promote and facilitate trade and investment between the UK and Cameroon. This affiliation gives us a direct vehicle to do exactly that, but with far greater scale and efficiency.

It positions us as an active conduit for British companies interested in Cameroon, and for Cameroonian businesses looking to expand or find partners in the UK. Through the BCC’s global reach, we now have the institutional backing to connect ecosystems in a way that’s structured, credible, and mutually beneficial.

What specific benefits do you expect for UKCCC members, and how will this contribute to their visibility and growth?

Chairman:
Networking is the lifeblood of business—and the BCC is unmatched in its global reach. Our members will gain access to a world of opportunity: introductions, forums, sector briefings, trade events, and most importantly, trusted relationships with like-minded professionals across multiple industries and continents.

We’re not just opening doors—we’re placing our members in rooms that matter. The visibility this offers, particularly for SMEs, is invaluable. Growth comes when opportunities meet preparation—and this is the platform to make that happen.

How might small and medium-sized businesses in particular benefit from this new status?

Chairman:
The opportunities are not reserved for large corporations—far from it. In fact, SMEs stand to benefit the most. The BCC network does not discriminate by size—it values ambition, innovation, and readiness to engage.

For SMEs, this is a chance to raise their profiles, connect with partners abroad, and gain knowledge that can shape their strategic direction. We’ll be actively supporting them in navigating the ecosystem, and ensuring they’re well-represented in key initiatives and events.

Are there particular BCC programs or events you’re eager for the UKCCC to engage with or lead on?

Chairman:
Absolutely. The BCC runs a robust calendar of events—from global trade summits to sector-specific working groups—and we intend to participate strategically. We’re particularly interested in areas where Cameroon has comparative advantage: agriculture, energy, infrastructure, digital innovation.

We’ll be carefully curating opportunities and communicating them clearly to our members. Quality over quantity is key—engagement must be targeted and results-driven.

How does BCC membership enhance the UKCCC’s advocacy efforts on trade and economic development?

Chairman:
Advocacy is about influence—and influence comes from affiliation. As a member of the BCC, our voice is now amplified within a respected global network. When we speak, we’re not speaking alone; we’re speaking as part of a collective that policymakers, investors, and institutions around the world take seriously.

This will strengthen our ability to shape policy dialogues and contribute to trade reform agendas—whether that’s in London, Yaoundé, or at international forums.

Do you see any immediate priorities where the UKCCC can assert leadership in UK–Cameroon trade conversations?

Chairman:
Yes, and the timing couldn’t be better. With Cameroon increasingly looking to diversify its economic partnerships and the UK seeking deeper ties across Africa post-Brexit, we sit at a strategic intersection.

We’ll be focusing on elevating Cameroon’s investment profile in the UK, bringing attention to sectors like renewable energy, agri-business, logistics, and services. At the same time, we’ll advocate for UK businesses to view Cameroon not just as a market—but as a regional gateway.

Looking ahead 2–3 years, what does success look like for the UKCCC as a result of this affiliation?

Chairman:
Success means delivering impact. Tangibly, I’d like to see measurable growth in bilateral trade volumes, an increase in cross-border partnerships, and UKCCC members actively participating in international markets.

We should also be seen as thought leaders and policy influencers—an institution that bridges business, government, and diplomacy in meaningful ways. Ultimately, we want the UKCCC to be viewed as a serious player in the global Chamber community.

What role should Chamber members play in co-creating value from this new partnership?

Chairman:
This is a shared platform—we’re only as strong as our members’ engagement. We’ve done the hard part: building the bridge. Now we need members to cross it, explore, connect, and contribute.

Whether it’s through joint ventures, attending events, initiating projects, or simply sharing best practices, every member has a role to play. I see our members not just as beneficiaries, but as co-creators of the value this membership brings.

Finally, as Chairman, what is your message to UKCCC members as we enter this new chapter?

Chairman:
Time waits for no one—and no one waits for time. We’ve entered a chapter of extraordinary opportunity, but it’s only meaningful if we engage with intent.

So, my message is simple: be present, be proactive, and take advantage. Networks like this reward the visible, the ambitious, and the bold. Let’s step forward—together—and make this count.